Battle of Hastings reenactment

The Battle of Hastings reenactment is an annual event with around 850 participants who recreate military tactics, weapons, and formations on the original battlefield from the Norman Conquest. The site accommodates large-scale combat scenes and troop movements that follow the historical sequence of the battle.

The reenactment commemorates October 14, 1066, when William of Normandy defeated English King Harold and seized control of the English throne. This battle resulted in major transformations in English governance, culture, and society for centuries to come.

Performers wear period-accurate costumes and demonstrate combat methods from the medieval era, bringing the experience of how soldiers fought and coordinated their movements to life. The reenactment shows the training and discipline required for battles of this period.

The field is largely exposed to the elements, so bring weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear for walking on uneven ground. Arriving early helps you secure a good viewing spot and allows time to explore the surrounding landscape before the action begins.

The reenactment takes place on the exact ground where the actual battle occurred nearly 1000 years ago, making it an authentic memorial to the event. Visitors can see the real positions armies occupied and understand the landscape that shaped the fighting.